2018 Nissan Leaf Electric · RO68 HSU

A clean and remarkably unblemished MOT record defines this Nissan's mechanical profile, with every test since 2022 returning a pass certificate and zero advisories or defects recorded by the examiner. The most recent examination on 24 September 2025 confirmed continued roadworthiness with no items flagged, following a similar clean pass on 7 October 2024 and another pass on 26 September 2023. The only entry breaking this otherwise spotless run is a fail recorded on 7 October 2024, which was immediately followed the same day by a pass, suggesting a minor item was rectified and the vehicle retested without delay rather than a significant mechanical defect. This pattern points to a car that has consistently met DVSA standards without developing the kind of wear-related advisories typically seen on suspension components, brake lines, or underbody corrosion as vehicles approach the eight-year mark. Against the eight years since first registration, the recorded mileage of 27,547 equates to an average annual accumulation of roughly 3,443 miles, which is notably below the typical mileage profile for a commuter-focused electric hatchback. There are no unusual mileage jumps or extended gaps in the testing record that would suggest either a long period off the road or sudden heavy use between tests. Mechanically, this low-mileage profile is a double-edged proposition; lighter running reduces stress on consumables such as brake discs, pads, and suspension bushes, but it can also allow for sticking brake calipers, dried rubber seals, and tyre degradation through age rather than wear. The brake system in particular warrants attention on a Leaf that has seen limited use, as the regenerative braking function means the friction brakes may have been exercised infrequently, potentially leading to corrosion on the disc surfaces or seized caliper slide pins. For a prospective buyer, the lack of recorded advisories means there is no specific component flagged in the MOT history to investigate, but the low usage profile makes a targeted physical inspection worthwhile. On a test drive, listen carefully for any knocking or clonking from the front suspension when traversing speed bumps or uneven surfaces, as power steering racks, lower control arm bushes, and anti-roll bar drop links can all degrade with age even on low-mileage vehicles. The brake pedal should feel firm and progressive; any sponginess, excessive travel, or vibration under braking could indicate corroded discs from light use, and a strong pull to one side under steady braking may suggest a binding caliper that has seized through lack of regular exercise. The steering should remain precise and self-centring without wandering or vague feedback around the straight-ahead position. Beyond the conventional mechanical checks, the unique characteristics of an electric Leaf with light mileage demand attention to items that traditional MOT testing does not fully cover. Inspect the high-voltage charging port and cable for any physical damage or scorching, and verify that the 12-volt auxiliary battery, which is separate from the traction pack, is in good condition, as a weak 12V battery can cause cascading electrical faults even when the main drive battery is healthy. On the test drive, confirm that the readouts on the dashboard for state of charge and remaining range appear consistent and that there are no warning lights illuminated. Listen for any unusual whining, clunking, or shuddering from the drivetrain under acceleration and deceleration, and ensure the parking brake holds the vehicle securely on an incline, as the electronic park brake actuator is known to require occasional recalibration on Leafs that have seen extended periods of limited use.